After a few weeks apart, Martini Mondays is officially back — and this one’s bursting with European flair! Chrissy just returned from a dreamy cruise through France, Italy, Spain, and even Malta (yes, it’s its own island country — we learned that too). Naturally, she came home with the good stuff: real-deal limoncello. So, this week’s cocktail? A Limoncello Martini — the perfect sip to pair with wedding inspiration from the French Riviera and Amalfi Coast.
Back Together and Back to Business
After a quick catch-up (and a few microphone adjustments — we’re learning as we go 😅), Chrissy filled us in on her travels. From Monte Carlo’s luxury-lined streets to the lemon-covered villages of Menton, it was a tour of pure European elegance. Every café, shop, and seaside restaurant seemed to celebrate lemons — from printed aprons and ceramics to the freshest limoncello poured over ice.
As Chrissy said, “Everything was lemons — shirts, shorts, aprons, drinks… it was unbelievable!” And honestly? That’s exactly the kind of inspiration we brides and stylists love to soak up.
European Weddings: Where Elegance Meets Ease
Over her glass of limoncello martini, Chrissy shared her thoughts on the European wedding vibe: smaller, more intimate, and dripping with character.
She painted a picture of Monte Carlo’s Grace Kelly cathedral, perfect for a romantic Catholic ceremony — if you’re willing to splurge. “It’s lovely,” she said, “but bring your wallet. Hotels were around $1,400 a night — and that was October!”
But it wasn’t just Monaco that caught her heart. A hidden gem in Sicily named Taormina stole the show. “It’s considered the most beautiful village in all of Italy,” Chrissy explained. “Cobblestone streets, ocean views, and centuries-old charm — it’s spectacular.”
So, if you’re dreaming of an Italian destination wedding that’s a little less expected than Lake Como or Rome, Taormina might just be your spot.
Destination Wedding Real Talk
Of course, no Martini Mondays episode would be complete without a little practicality. We talked about what it really means to plan a destination wedding — from travel logistics to guest experience.
Chrissy made a great point: “If you’re already traveling overseas, you want to make it as convenient as possible once guests get there.” Translation? Don’t make them hop on planes, trains, and boats just to reach your venue.
That said, the trend of European “I dos” isn’t slowing down. Whether it’s Greece, Italy, or the South of France, couples are embracing once-in-a-lifetime backdrops — and we’re here for it.
Bringing the Riviera Home
If a Monte Carlo wedding isn’t in the budget (and honestly, who’s is?), you can still channel the vibe closer to home. Think color palettes of sage green, blush, cream, and French blue. Add a few striped linens or lemon accents for that Riviera-by-the-Sea feeling.
Chrissy even suggested hosting a shower at a local French restaurant with blue-and-white striped décor or rose-hued florals to mirror that effortless European aesthetic.
Her biggest takeaway? “If you want to get married abroad — do something different. Change it up. And if you can’t go to Monte Carlo, bring Monte Carlo to you.”
Martini Mondays Tip of the Day
Brides, if you’ve been married 44 years like Chrissy — it might be time for a new martini shaker. 😉
(Yes, she’s serious — her old one was older than me and definitely past its prime.) Get my fave, here!
Final Toast
Between limoncello laughs, tales from the French Riviera, and a few travel tips that turned into wedding wisdom, this episode reminded us why we love Martini Mondays so much: it’s about celebrating beauty, family, and fun — one martini at a time.
Cheers — or as they say in Italy, Salute! 🍸🍋
P.S. Want to watch instead of just listen? Visit us on YouTube!
